So, You’re Ready to Part with Your Plastic Bricks? A Guide to Selling LEGO® Sets
The moment has arrived. You’ve decided to sell some of your LEGO® collection. Whether it’s to fund new plastic adventures, free up some space, or perhaps just pass on the joy to another builder, navigating the LEGO® resale market can feel like stepping into a giant bin of unsorted bricks – a bit overwhelming. Fear not, fellow AFOL (or perhaps just a curious parent), this guide is here to help you sort through the chaos and sell your sets effectively.
Assessing Your Treasure: What Are You Selling?
Before you even think about listing your sets, it’s crucial to take stock of what you have. Are they complete sets with instructions? Are they vintage gems or more recent releases? The condition and completeness of your sets will significantly impact their value. A pristine, complete set in its original box will fetch a much higher price than a loose collection of bricks. Speaking of boxes, you might want to check out our article on whether you should keep LEGO boxes – it could save you some heartache (and money) down the line!
Finding the Right Marketplace: Where Do the Bricks Belong?
Choosing the right platform is key to a successful sale. Each marketplace has its own pros and cons:
- Online Marketplaces (eBay, Bricklink): These offer a vast audience but can involve fees and require more effort in terms of listing and shipping.
- Social Media Groups: Facebook groups dedicated to LEGO® buying and selling can be great for connecting with passionate collectors.
- Local Classifieds (Craigslist, Kijiji): These are ideal for selling locally and avoiding shipping costs, but your audience is limited.
- LEGO® Buyback Programs: LEGO® itself sometimes offers buyback programs, a convenient option but usually offering lower payouts. You can read more about LEGO®’s buyback program on our blog.
- Consignment Shops: Some toy stores or consignment shops specialize in LEGO® and can handle the selling process for you, taking a commission on the sale.
Setting the Price: How Much Are Your Bricks Worth?
Research is your best friend here. Look at completed listings on eBay or Bricklink to get an idea of what similar sets are selling for. Factor in the condition of your set, its completeness, and whether it includes the original box and instructions. Remember, a rare minifigure can sometimes drastically increase the value of a set! Need help valuing those little plastic people? Check out our guide on how to identify LEGO minifigures!
Creating a Compelling Listing: Showcasing Your Plastic Gold
A picture is worth a thousand bricks! High-quality photos are essential for attracting buyers. Showcase the set from multiple angles, highlighting any unique features or minifigures. Be honest and transparent in your description, mentioning any missing pieces or imperfections. A clear and concise title will also help potential buyers find your listing.
Packaging and Shipping: Protecting Your Precious Cargo
Once your set sells, proper packaging is crucial to ensure it arrives safely. Disassemble delicate parts, wrap them securely, and use plenty of padding to protect against damage during transit. Offer tracking information to both yourself and the buyer for peace of mind.
Handling the Transaction: Smooth Sailing to a Successful Sale
Communicate clearly with the buyer throughout the process, responding promptly to any questions they may have. Be professional and courteous, even if negotiations get a little tricky. A positive selling experience can lead to repeat buyers and positive feedback.
Tips for Maximizing Your LEGO® Sale
Complete Sets vs. Parting Out: The Great LEGO® Divide
Sometimes, parting out a set – selling individual minifigures or rare pieces – can actually earn you more than selling the entire set. This is especially true for older sets where certain elements are highly sought after. However, parting out requires more effort and organization.
The Power of Nostalgia: Tapping into Childhood Memories
Highlighting the nostalgic value of a set can often attract buyers. Is it a classic theme from your childhood? Mention that in your listing! Tap into the emotional connection that many people have with LEGO®.
The « Dark Ages » and Beyond: Understanding the Collector’s Mindset
Many AFOLs have gone through a « dark age » – a period of time when they stopped building with LEGO®. These returning builders are often eager to recapture their childhood passions and are willing to pay a premium for sets they missed out on. Understanding this collector’s mindset can help you target your listings effectively.
Beyond the Sale: The LEGO® Community Continues
Selling your LEGO® sets can be a bittersweet experience. You’re parting with a piece of your collection, but you’re also contributing to the joy of another builder. Remember, the LEGO® community is built on sharing and creativity. So, even after the sale, the connection remains. Now, tell us, what’s the most valuable set you’ve ever sold (or considered selling)? We’d love to hear your stories!
